Blink Accepting Applications For 2019 Artists

This display in Piatt Park was one of 35 light-based installations during 2017's Blink.

Bill Rinehart
/ WVXU

ArtWorks is looking for artists for the 2019 Blink festival. Starting Friday, ArtWorks will accept applications and proposals for interactive, light-based installations and sculptures.

"If you have a unique, brilliant idea, Blink is looking for you," says Tamara Harkavy, ArtWorks CEO and artistic director, and light-based installation curator for Blink. "We're looking locally and regionally for diverse and original concepts that will engage and amaze Blink's audience of more than one million."

How many will be accepted is up in the air. It depends in part on the budget.

Harkavy says pieces are commissioned. "It's a competition. The award levels range from $12,500 all the way down to 'I just need a little help.' 'I have a great idea.' I need $250 to complete this idea.' "

ArtWorks is hosting an information session for artists on the application process Dec. 12 from 6-7:30 p.m. at the Cincinnati Shakespeare Company, 1195 Elm Street. Attendance is not a prerequisite for applying.

Applications are due Jan. 28, 2019. They will be reviewed by a jury made up of representatives from ArtsWave, the Contemporary Arts Center and community curators.

The light and art show that replaced Lumenocity and attracted an estimated 1 million people to Downtown and Over-the-Rhine will be back, but not until next year. The Cincinnati Regional Chamber says Blink will return in October 2019 with large-scale projection mapping, murals, light sculptures and other entertainment.

Blink, the community art and light festival, ended in October but its artwork still lives today. This includes a brand new mural that's being painted by an internationally known street artist, ROA, near Findlay Market.